You initially listed your home with high hopes, but the showings have slowed and the offers haven’t come.

And now that it has been sitting on the market longer than expected, you may be growing understandably frustrated. But don’t panic! Most of the time, there’s a clear explanation—and, more importantly, a way to fix it. Here are the most common reasons a home might not be selling and what you can do to get back on track.

It’s priced too high for the market

The price is one of the first things buyers look at, and if it’s too high, many won’t bother to schedule a showing. Even in a seller’s market, they are looking for value, so if your home is priced above similar properties nearby, it may be overlooked in favor of more competitive listings.

What to do:
Ask your agent for a fresh appraisal. They can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) that includes recently sold homes (not just active listings) in your area, allowing you to get a realistic sense of the value of yours. Based on this, a small price reduction may make sense and could generate new interest, bringing serious buyers through the door.

The listing photos aren’t making a strong first impression

In today’s digital world, most buyers will see your home online before deciding whether to visit in person. Images with poor lighting and low quality can make it appear less appealing than it is; similarly, ones that feature cluttered rooms and other staging gaffes won’t do much to showcase its potential.

What to do:
Consider professional real estate photography and staging. A few small tweaks—like removing personal items, adjusting furniture, and adding lighting—can make your home feel more spacious and inviting in photos. The goal is to help buyers imagine themselves living there.

The listing description isn’t connecting with buyers

Your home’s online description is a chance to display its personality, but if it’s too generic or doesn’t note key details, it may not grab attention. Buyers want more than a list of facts—they want a feel for the lifestyle a property offers.

What to do:
Work with your agent to update the listing copy. Make sure that it highlights your home’s best features, whether it has a large backyard, updated kitchen, or home office. Don’t forget to mention recent upgrades and any community perks that add value.

The home needs a little TLC

Minor issues can be a major turn-off for buyers interested in a mostly move-in ready home. Scuffed walls, dated finishes, and visible wear and tear can signal that yours hasn’t been well cared for, even if that’s not the case.

What to do:
Walk through your home with fresh eyes. Better yet, have your agent do it with you to gain an objective perspective. Make a list of small improvements that could make a big impact: repainting with a neutral color, updating hardware, replacing old light fixtures, or deep-cleaning the floors. These updates can ensure that you present your space in its best light.

It’s hard for buyers to schedule a showing

If showings are too limited or restrictive, your pool of potential buyers shrinks. These individuals are often on tight schedules, and if your home isn’t available when they are, they may move on.

What to do:
Try to be as flexible as possible. Aim for open availability on evenings and weekends, and consider allowing short-notice showings. If you’re concerned about disruption, your agent can help you strike a balance that works for both you and prospective buyers.

The market may have shifted

Real estate markets are always changing. Interest rates rise, demand cools, and inventory levels fluctuate—all of which can affect how quickly homes sell. Even if yours would have sold in an instant a few months ago, conditions might be different now.

What to do:
Talk to your agent about what’s happening locally. They can offer insights into current buyer behavior, pricing trends, and average days on the market. If selling overall has slowed, you may need to adjust your expectations, enhance your marketing efforts, or wait for conditions to improve.

A few smart changes can make all the difference

When your home isn’t selling, it can feel like you’ve run out of options. Oftentimes, though, a few targeted changes are all it takes to reignite interest. Whether it’s adjusting the price, improving your photos, or refreshing your home’s appearance, the right strategy can turn the ship around.

Remember, you’re not in this alone. A qualified real estate agent is your best resource for honest feedback, data-driven insights, and expert advice. Together, you can create a plan that brings buyers through the door—and gets your home sold.